Full metal racket

While many military Xbox games attack the subject from a realistic angle, SO:RM is quite happy to take a Hollywood view of 21st-century soldiering. It's all about high explosives, hordes of enemies and more bullets than a John Woo flick.

Speaking of Hollywood, apparently this game's script was penned by a couple of real scriptwriters. They're obviously not Oscar winners, as SO:RM's story feels like every other cliched excuse to blow people up that is commonplace in games.

Thankfully, you will probably be too busy living out your secret Rambo fantasies to notice.

The player is served a heap of action, followed by a scoop of skirmishing, topped off with a dollop of warfare. The non-stop battles take place all over the globe, from romantic raids in Paris to tactical tussles in rainforests.

These levels aren't short, which makes the lack of mid-level save points almost unforgivable. For the most part, everything looks good, but every now and then a spot of ugliness reminds you that it's all just a game.

The intelligence of the opposition is of paramount importance in a shooter, so it's disappointing to see simplistic behaviour from SO:RM's enemies.

These opponents' lack of anything resembling intellect is mirrored by your equally stupid teammates - these guys are so dumb they had to be made invincible to allow them to complete each stage with you.

Online play is supported, but compared with the likes of Rainbow Six this is nothing to cock your rifle for.

If you're looking for some shoot-'em-up action, SO:RW isn't too shabby. Just be prepared for a few irritating flaws to get in the way of your fun.

Endgame: Pure, mindless action hindered by a couple of dud rounds.

Game preview

The Sims 2

Runs on: PC

The sequel to the biggest selling computer game ever is one of the most highly anticipated releases of the year.

More than 33 million copies of The Sims have sold since February 2000, including seven expansion packs. Sims titles have dominated Australian PC games charts for four years, an unprecedented feat in a fickle industry.

The addictive life simulator has also broken down stereotypes about gaming. More than 60 per cent of players are women and 22 per cent are over 35. Due in September, The Sims 2 should garner even more fans. Every facet of the game has been reworked.

Your Sims now want more out of life, with personal dreams and aspirations. A player's time is spent addressing Sim desires rather than banal basic needs, which are thankfully now handled automatically.

Character aspirations include fame, fortune, knowledge, family and romance. Achieve milestones and your reward is a higher life score but points are lost if a Sim's personal fears are realised. Playing the "lusty lover" or family-orientated Sim should be equally fun and rewarding.

The other drastic change is that Sims now age and reproduce, passing on their genes and personal traits. Building an entire family dynasty promises to be hugely satisfying and you can even film home videos to share with friends.

Sims now also exhibit more complex behaviour. They have memories, deeper relationships, fights, affairs and even gossip. Their world is now fully three-dimensional but it has more impact than simply being pleasing to the eye. Being able to view the action from any perspective lets you get up close and personal with your Sims, intimately watching their emotional reactions.

It also allows aspiring designers more freedom to landscape the neighbourhood, plus build and furnish their virtual dream home. - Jason Hill